Sustainability, defined as meeting present needs without compromising future generations, is a multidimensional goal encompassing environmental, social, and economic considerations. However, the design, construction, and maintenance of transport infrastructure—such as roads, railways, and bridges—have historically prioritized technical requirements, often overlooking environmental and social impacts.

Transitioning to sustainable transport infrastructure means minimizing environmental harm, conserving resources, and promoting long-term system resilience. This includes the use of eco-friendly materials, reducing carbon emissions, and integrating renewable energy sources into infrastructure projects. Innovative practices in design, material selection, and lifecycle management are essential to achieving these aims.

Scope and Aims

This Research Topic will feature cutting-edge studies, methodological advancements, and critical reviews relating to the sustainability of transport infrastructure. We specifically invite contributions on the green design of infrastructure elements, focusing on strategies and materials that minimize or avoid environmental impacts across lifecycle phases. Emphasis is on approaches that address durability, energy efficiency, waste reduction, air and water quality, biodiversity, and the promotion of circular economy principles.

Further, submissions addressing the integration of digital tools (e.g., BIM, BrIM), advanced monitoring, and AI-driven management and decision-support systems for efficient, sustainable infrastructure are welcomed, as these tools can enhance both assessment and operational efficiency.

Potential Themes

Manuscripts may address, but are not limited to, the following:

o Innovative, sustainable building and engineering materials
o (Road) pavement, railway, and bridge management systems, especially employing digital or automated solutions
o Lifecycle engineering principles, including Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Social-LCA, and Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment
o Building Information Modeling (BIM), Bridge Information Modeling (BrIM), and digital twins
o Sustainability rating systems and certification schemes
o Life cycle costing (LCC), and financial aspects of sustainable infrastructure
o Climate change mitigation and adaptation for transport infrastructure
o Waste management, resource efficiency, and circular economy strategies
o Environmental impacts such as noise, land use, water and air quality

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Enhanced Sustainability of Transport Infrastructure